Wild rice has been eaten by people since prehistoric times. "Manoomin", as the Indians call it, grows predominantly in the lakes and streams of the Great Lakes region.
Wild rice is actually an aquatic grass, but it has had many names over the years. The English called it Indian rice, while the French thought it was more like an oat, and called it "folle avoine" or "wild rice". Other names include blackbird oats, water oats, and squaw rice.

Wild rice has a pleasing, chewy texture and nutty flavor. Use in place of potatoes or rice: in dressings, casseroles, soups, salads, and desserts. This grain has a high protein and carbohydrate content, and is very low in fat.